RTC 2026

On the plus side, those images show 'fresh air' coaches with CDL, albeit air braked.
What isn't clear is whether non CDL mk1s will be needed in the set for alternator power, thus reducing the capacity.
If yes, then you are correct in that they have revived the model which was claimed to be unprofitable. In that scenario I'd guess the likely reason would be fulfilling obligations/commercial commitments.
It is very strange not to have expedited fitting of CDL to mk1s by this stage though when they could be earning handsomely on the Jacobite.

 

Disappointing to say the least. I think this shows we're still a long way from the end of this WCR and CDL business.

I agree there's a very slim chance 34028 will take on the Coast to Coast railtour. I expect it may pick up a couple more railtours in the South but very unlikely it'll go up north.

 

Isnt 99318 the mk1 that was pictured a few months back fitted with cdl

 

Is that the brake?

 

They are Pressure Vent MK2 thought not Air Con and some of them are newly fitted. So they have been fitted. All of them, except the brake have got top light windows. It’s basically the former afternoon train set!

 

How is it dissapoiting that some of these coaches weren’t fitted previous with CDL and now have been? It’s progress.

The stock is basically the former afternoon train which was always acceptable before.

 

Agreed.
Be interesting to see what piwers the CDL.

 

Surely this would be the same set up as Vintage Trains Mk2s which don't require any additional power?
I think the issue was more with air conditioning needing power.

 

So as it stands today --- things might change--- they have Tangmere for the Northern Belle, the northern based RTC trips and the Dalesman/SSE. Have I got that right?

 

Yes quite possibly, only we haven't seen WC operating trains without a power supply yet, whether DL or from mk1 alternator on the Jacobite.
The system SRPS has adopted for its dual braked set is probably more like what WC will be wanting for its own mk1s, a CDL system which works with both vac and air. The mk2s of course are not dual braked.

 

I don't think that you'd need to send both Black 5's all the way to Fort William unless you're actually going to run the train. My bet is that Tangmere will do the Coast to Coast (if it runs) and the Northern Belle will be diesel hauled due to "no available steam locomotive". I hope I'm wrong!

 

Maybe WC has some contractual obligation to Riley's and as the Jacobite not running has been by choice [of WC] rather than external factor, the time has come where the contract has to be fulfilled or compensated?
Seems to me Rileys have been very patient these last couple of, what would normally be, peak earning months.